This study aimed to evaluate the LithoGold LG-380 lithotripter, a novel low-pressure lithotripter, in terms of its acoustic characteristics and safety in a pig model. The acoustic field of the LG-380 was compared to other lithotripters, including the Dornier HM3, Storz Modulith SLX, and XiXin CS2012 (XX-ES), using mapping techniques with a fiberoptic hydrophone. Additionally, the study assessed renal response and injury when administering shockwaves (SW) to pigs.

The results showed that the LG-380 had a wider focal width (approximately 20 mm) compared to the other lithotripters evaluated. Even though the focal width gradually narrowed after 5000 shockwaves, this did not significantly affect the breakage of model stones. Interestingly, stones positioned at the periphery of the focal volume still broke effectively, similar to stones at the target point.

Importantly, the study found that kidney injury was minimal when following the recommended slow shockwave-rate multistep ramping protocol or when delivering shockwaves at a fast rate using maximum power. The measured kidney injury was less than 0.1% of the functional renal volume.

Based on these findings, the LithoGold LG-380 lithotripter demonstrated the acoustic characteristics of a low-pressure lithotripter with a wide focal zone. It exhibited the broadest focal width among the lithotripters examined in this study. Moreover, the lithotripter was considered relatively safe, as it resulted in minimal kidney injury when following the recommended treatment protocols.

This study contributes to the understanding of the LithoGold LG-380 lithotripter’s efficacy and safety, showcasing its potential as a promising tool for non-invasive kidney stone treatment.

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